Do you need another reason to start and stick to an exercise program? In a recent issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers from Stanford University report that the fittest people suffer the lowest risk of death.

Almost 3,700 men who were suspected to have or had a history of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and 2,500 men without a history of CVD participated in a study that used treadmill exercise tests to determine their exercise capacity. The men were followed for 6 years after the initial treadmill tests, and during the 6-year follow-up period, 1,256 of the men died.

When the treadmill test results of the men who died were compared to those of the men who survived, the men who died were less physically fit and had a lower capacity for exercise. The men who had the least capacity for exercise were about four times more likely to die than the fittest men.

According to this study and many others, exercise has a protective effect against death as well as chronic diseases. If you don't currently exercise, see your physician for a physical and tips on how to get started. Work your way up to at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise (walking or cycling are good choices) each day on most days of the week.

Related information: Fitness Center | Weight Management Center

Sources:  Myers J, Prakash M, Froelicher V, Do D, Partington S, Atwood JE. Exercise capacity and mortality among men referred for exercise testing. New England Journal of Medicine, March 14, 2002, Vol. 346, p. 793-801.